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2. VERMICOMPOSTING TYPES AND METHODS

2.1. Types

The type of system to be used in vermicompost production is classified under two main

headings depending on whether the production is large or small scale, production of worms for

vermicompost sale, manure harvesting time, availability of materials to be used as substrate,
labor force and needs and environmental conditions. These are batch-static systems and

continuous-flow systems (Table 1).

2.1.1. Batch-Static Systems

The batch system follows an application procedure where everything (worms, food and
fertilizer) is added to the container/pile at once. The system is covered and left alone for 30

days. At the end of these days you can harvest the worms, liquid fertilizer (if waterproof) and

vermicompost. The system provides low material investment costs, space optimization as
batches can be stored vertically if made in boxes. The batch system can be disadvantageous as

it is labor-intensive. All batches need to be changed every month, including the collection of

worms from the system into another batch. The system is usually used to obtain liquid fertilizer
in a waterproof box (IBC container) and to multiply the worms. However, some vermicompost

can also be produced [11].

2.1.2. Continuous-Flow System

The continuous-flow systems are one of the systems used in the processing of biomass waste
to produce vermicompost. The continuous-flow systems are characterised by dynamic

operating conditions. It results in a simultaneous in-flow of fresh waste into the reactor and an
out-flow of processed waste and vermicompost from the reactor. It can be designed with metal

or plastic material. It is of two main types: reactors with continuous substrate feed and reactors

with continuous worm and substrate feed.

In the Continuous-Flow system, food is constantly added to the heap and the worms are always
active and moving towards the new food added. This can be open air heaps or open raised beds

built on stilts, which both supply air from the top and are called bottoms as harvesting takes

place from the bottom. The raw material is added from the "grid" on top after two months.
Continuous process, can be harvested continuously. Investment costs are generally higher than

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